Continuous energy restriction (CER) plus 16/8 time-restricted feeding improve body composition and metabolic parameters in overweight and obese, but no more than CER alone

BACKGROUND: Current guidelines recommend continuous energy restriction (CER) and lifestyle change as the basis of obesity treatment. Recently, several intermittent fasting protocols have received considerable interest as an alternative weight loss strategy. OBJECTIVE: This study compared the effects of 8-week CER versus CER along with 16/8 time-restricted feeding (16/8 TRF) on body composition and metabolic markers in excess weight physically active subjects. METHODS: Twenty-four physically active obese or overweight adults, from both genders, were split into two groups: CER plus 16/8 TRF (CER + TRF) and CER. Both groups consumed a 20%energy restriction diet. CER plus 16/8 TRF were asked to consume their meals during an 8-hour open window (12 to 20 pm). We evaluated body composition and metabolic biomarkers before and after the intervention. RESULTS: We observed a reduction in body weight (BW), body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), and fat mass (FM) in both groups. However, a decrease in fat-free mass (FFM) and skeletal muscle mass (SMM) was seen only in the CER. Although fasting glucose did not change, we observed a decrease in fasting insulin and HOMA-IR in both groups. Leptin decrease in both treatments. Cortisol levels increased only in the CER group. CONCLUSIONS: We can conclude that CER + TRF is as effective as CER to promote weight and fat loss, but, CER + TRF seems to be more efficient in maintaining lean body mass.